FEMA Flood Map Changes (Updated with Appeal Process Information)

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) generates flood maps as a tool for local communities to identify which areas have the highest risk of flooding.   In 2018, FEMA began a Flood Risk Study of the Farmington River Watershed, which includes the Town of Simsbury and other Hartford County communities, in order to update as necessary, the current flood maps.  The study utilized improved hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, new topographic and aerial imagery and revised modeling.  From this information, new floodplain characteristics were generated and preliminary flood maps were created.  They are now available for public review. 

If your property is located in or is in proximity to a flood zone, the revised maps are important to review as they may impact your property. Please click here for information and directions on how to access preliminary flood mapping for your property as well as how to contact FEMA with any questions.  Property owners may appeal map revisions to FEMA during the 90-day appeal period. *UPDATE* FEMA has announced that the start of the 90-day appeal period will begin on February 28, 2024 and end on May 28, 2024.  Please click here for more information on appeals.   The effective date for the new, finalized maps is tentatively scheduled for November 2025.

The Town of Simsbury has over 1,000 residential and commercial parcels located within the flood zone and federal programs such as this rely on local jurisdictions for citizen outreach.  This webpage will be updated when additional information is received by the Planning Department staff.  If you have any further questions or need help accessing the FEMA information, please contact the Planning Department at 860-658-3245. 

Quick Links and Helpful Hints to Access the FEMA Flood Maps

1.  To view the preliminary flood map changes for your property, please follow the link found here.  Input your address in the "Find address or place" search bar (include "Simsbury, CT" when inputting your address such as, "123 Main Street, Simsbury, CT").

2.  The map will take you to the property with the flood change layers turned on.  You can view the names of each layer by clicking on the "layers list" button in the upper right-hand corner.  The first option, "Preliminary Changes Since Last FIRM Layer" will display the areas where the flood zone was deleted or added.  The third layer option, "Preliminary National Flood Hazard Layer" will show you the entire preliminary flood map for the property. 

3.  There is also a legend button next to the layers icon.  The legend provides information on what each color is on the map.

4.  If you are having trouble navigating the site or have questions about flood zones on your property, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Planning Office at 860-658-3245 or email bmacgilpin@simsbury-ct.gov.